Parts for your 2017 Toyota Vitz|yaris-Universal joints

Are universal joints used on the 2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris?

For Australia and New Zealand–spec 2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris (XP130 series), universal joints aren’t part of the front driveline. The car is front‑wheel drive and uses constant velocity (CV) joints at each front driveshaft, not cross‑type universal joints (U‑joints). This is confirmed in Toyota’s Yaris/Vitz XP130 Repair Manual under Drivetrain/Axle – Front Drive Shaft, which specifies outboard Rzeppa‑type CV joints and inboard tripod‑type CV joints, and by the Toyota Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) listings for the drive shaft assemblies that show CV joint kits, boots and clips but no propeller‑shaft U‑joints. Toyota’s New Car Features (NCF) for the XP130 platform also describes the FWD layout without a propeller shaft, which is where U‑joints are typically found on rear‑wheel or all‑wheel drive vehicles.

Why no universal joints on the drive shafts? Because a FWD hatch like the Yaris needs smooth power delivery at large steering angles. Conventional U‑joints create velocity fluctuation (a cyclic speed change) whenever they run at an angle, which would cause vibration and torque steer. CV joints, by design, transmit constant rotational speed through big angles without that pulsation, which is why they’re the industry standard on FWD hubs. This behaviour is well documented in core references like Bosch Automotive Handbook and Hillier’s Fundamentals of Motor Vehicle Technology, and aligns with Toyota’s service documentation for the XP130.

There is a small “universal joint” on the steering intermediate shaft (the column coupling), but that’s unrelated to the drive shafts people usually mean when they say universal joints. It’s not a routine service item, it’s replaced if there’s play, stiffness, or corrosion, as outlined in the Steering – Column/Intermediate Shaft section of the Toyota Repair Manual.

• FWD driveline: CV joints at both ends of each front drive shaft (sealed, greased, booted).
• No propeller shaft on AU/NZ 2017 Yaris/Vitz, so no driveline U‑joints to service.
• Steering column uses a small U‑joint coupling, inspect only if there’s notchiness or free play.

If the hunt was for “universaljoints” as a replacement part for a 2017 Yaris/Vitz driveline, the correct parts to look for are CV joints or complete drive shafts. Focus maintenance on torn CV boots, clicking on turns, or grease sling around the inner guards—classic signs a CV joint needs attention.

Popular questions about 2017 Toyota Vitz/Yaris universal joints

Does a 2017 Yaris/Vitz have universal joints in the driveline?

No. The AU/NZ 2017 Yaris/Vitz is front‑wheel drive and uses constant velocity joints on its front drive shafts. Universal joints are typically found on propeller shafts in rear‑ or all‑wheel drive vehicles, which the local 2017 Yaris/Vitz doesn’t have.

What should be serviced instead of universal joints on this model?

Keep an eye on CV boots and listen for clicking when turning—both point to CV joint issues. Replace torn boots promptly and address noisy joints with a new CV joint or complete shaft. Also check the steering intermediate shaft U‑joint only if there’s stiffness or play in the wheel.

How can someone tell if the steering U‑joint is worn?

Common clues are a notchy feel, binding near centre, or free play that doesn’t trace back to tie‑rods or rack ends. If confirmed, the steering intermediate shaft is usually replaced as an assembly per Toyota’s workshop guidance.